Fry Bread
Fry bread is a delightful, golden fried dough that offers a crispy exterior and soft interior. Its warm, comforting flavor makes it perfect for breakfast, snack, or dessert. Crispy on the outside with a tender inside, it appeals to all ages and pairs well with sweet or savory toppings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the flour, baking powder, melted butter, and milk to form a dough.
- Sprinkle a work surface with flour and roll out the dough.
- Cut the dough into strips or desired shapes.
- Fry the dough in hot oil, about 1 inch deep, until golden brown on both sides.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider using cake flour instead of all-purpose flour. You can also substitute half of the milk with buttermilk for a tangy flavor. If you're looking for a healthier option, try using a mixture of whole wheat flour and all-purpose flour. Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to avoid greasy bread.
Serving Suggestions
Fry bread is incredibly versatile and can be served as a side with savory dishes like chili or stew. For a sweet twist, top it with honey or jam, or even serve it alongside Low-Fat Vanilla Pudding for dessert. It also pairs beautifully with hearty soups and salads for a complete meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover fry bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To reheat, place it in a warm oven for about 5-10 minutes until heated through. If you prefer a crispy texture, you can also pan-fry it quickly in a bit of oil to regain its crunch.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fry Bread contains roughly 703 calories, with 16g protein, 135g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (52% of the Daily Value), protein (33% of the Daily Value), and calcium (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and dietary fiber. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make fry bread ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just make sure to bring it to room temperature before rolling it out and frying. Freshly fried is best, but prepped dough can save time on busy days.
What kind of oil is best for frying fry bread?
A neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil or canola oil, is best for frying fry bread. This ensures that the bread cooks evenly and doesn't impart any unwanted flavors into the dough.
Can I bake fry bread instead of frying it?
While fry bread is traditionally deep-fried for a crispy texture, you can bake it at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes for a healthier alternative. Brush it lightly with oil before baking to help achieve a golden color.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).